In the face of growing systemic rivalry with China, Germany’s Federal Ministry of Education and Research (BMBF) has announced a significant increase in funding for research projects focused on modern China. The initiative, titled “Modern China Research II,” aims to enhance independent China expertise in Germany and Europe, enabling a deeper understanding of China’s evolving strategies, policies, and societal shifts in the global competition.
Federal Research Minister Bettina Stark-Watzinger emphasised the importance of this move, stating,
“Sound and independent China expertise is essential in order to perceive and enforce German interests. We need to better understand current social, domestic and foreign policy developments and China’s strategies.”
Research to Navigate Global Competition
With a planned total volume of up to five million euros, the funding will support research projects that delve into a wide range of topics, including social, domestic, and foreign policy strategies, as well as current social issues within China. The ultimate goal is to inform and empower German scientific and political actors to make well-informed decisions regarding cooperation with China, particularly in the realms of science and universities.
This initiative underscores the growing global competition and the increasing need for collaboration in navigating the complex relationship between Germany/Europe and China. By fostering a deeper understanding of China’s internal and external dynamics, Europe aims to strike a balance between competition and cooperation, ensuring that its interests are both protected and advanced in the global arena.
